COBALT POWDER

Hazard statements

Potentially hazardous airborne dust may be generated under certain handling and processing conditions. Processing should be performed in well-ventilated areas. High airborne dust concentrations should be addressed by a Certified Industrial Hygienist or other competent professional. If dust concentrations cannot be effectively limited by procedural improvements or ventilation and other engineering controls, respiratory protection and other PPE must be utilized. EMERGENCY OVERVIEW: Immediate effects of excessive exposure to airborne dust include eye and respiratory irritation. If high exposure conditions occur, evacuate contaminated area immediately and seek appropriate medical attention. HMIS DESIGNATION: HEALTH 1 FLAMMABILITY 3* REACTIVITY 0 PPE E *Flammability rating for powdered metal product.

Principle Routes of Exposure

Inhalation of airborne dust Acute Effects of Overexposure: INGESTION: There are no known reports of adverse health effects from cobalt ingestion in the workplace. Ingestion of large quantities of this product (dust) may cause gastrointestinal irritation and pain, nausea and/or vomiting. Other serious effects (diarrhea, convulsions, death) may occur if large amounts of product are swallowed. SKIN: Prolonged contact with dust may cause skin irritation or sensitization, possibly leading to dermatitis. Most rashes associated with cobalt occur on the hands and appear within the first year of occupational exposure to cobalt. INHALATION: Cobalt is a known allergen that produces characteristic symptoms of asthma, such as wheezing, dry cough, and labored breathing. Usually the asthma symptoms appear 4-6 hours after exposure and often worsen again later in the same day. Delayed asthma reactions to inhaled cobalt may occur up to 48 hours after exposure. Improvement typically occurs when cobalt exposure ceases, e.g. weekends, vacations. Other cobalt-containing compounds, but not cobalt powder itself, are associated with sub-acute fibrosis alveolitis and chronic diffuse interstitial pulmonary fibrosis. EYE: Direct eye contact with airborne dust may cause eye irritation, redness, itching.

Potential chronic health

of Overexposure EXCESSIVE AND REPEATED EXPOSURES MAY CAUSE: Allergic skin sensitization/dermatitis Respiratory irritation, inflammation Eye inflammation, irritation of mucous membranes CARCINOGENICITY: Cobalt has not been identified as a human carcinogen, although animal studies have identified cobalt as a possible human carcinogen. Refer to Section 11, TOXICOLOGICAL INFORMATION. SYNERGISTIC MATERIALS: None known. Nickel is considered to be a potential co-sensitizer. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF OVEREXPOSURE: Redness, swelling, itching, and/or irritation of skin and eyes; dermatitis Respiratory irritation; permanent respiratory system damage

Medical Conditions Generally Aggravated by Exposure

Pre-existing allergies, respiratory disorders, and skin conditions may be aggravated by exposure to airborne dust. Individuals with prior history of emphysema, asthma, bronchitis, nickel sensitization, dermatitis, or other pulmonary and skin disorders may exhibit sensitivity to dust.